Why should I clean up after my dog?

It is an offence under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 not to clear up immediately after your dog has fouled, unless you have a reasonable excuse.

It's anti-social

Dog fouling in public areas is anti-social. It is unpleasant to look at, smells and attracts flies. The Council receives over 100 complaints about dog fouling a year.

It's dangerous

Dog waste is associated with a number of diseases including toxicarasis. Toxocara is a roundworm commonly found in dogs, and almost all puppies. Eggs from the roundworm are found in dog waste, where they can pose a health risk if eaten, particularly to small children.

The parasite can cause stomach upsets, sore throats, asthma and in some cases blindness. The eggs remain active in the soil for years, long after any dog waste has weathered away, so the risk isn't always obvious.

If you are witnessed failing to clear up your dogs waste, you will be offered a Fixed Penalty Notice. Similar to a speeding ticket, you have the option to accept this Notice and pay the fixed penalty of £50 within 14 days, or alternatively face prosecution in the Magistrates' Court. The maximum penalty upon conviction is currently £1,000. Registered blind people are exempt.

Where should I place my dog waste?

Dog waste should be placed in the dog bins located throughout the Borough. If there isn't a dog bin, remember you can place dog waste into a general waste bin, provided it is bagged or take it home with you.

How do I clean up after my dog?

Firstly, be prepared - always carry a poop-scoop or bag. A variety of disposable dog fouling bags and scoops are available from pet shops and other retail outlets - although a carrier bag will suffice. Follow these simple guidelines:

place hand in plastic bag

pick up dog waste using plastic bag

turn the bag inside out so dog waste is inside and tie the bag up.

Ensure the dog waste is removed in its entirety and that bags are tied up before disposal. Where bins are available, place the bag inside the bin.

Can we have some no fouling signs?

Can we have more dog waste bins?

The Council has installed more dog waste bins, located in spots chosen with the help of local residents.

The Council is under no obligation to provide dog waste bins. However, bins are provided on Council owned areas of land including parks, recreation grounds, amenity greens and countryside areas to encourage people to clean up after their dogs.

What do I do if the dog waste bin is full?

Should a dog bin be full please either place the bag in another nearby waste bin or take the waste home with you and put it in your general household waste bin.

In addition, to ensure that the full dog waste bin is emptied as soon as possible, it would be very helpful if you would please inform either the Council's Environmental Health Service or the contractor responsible for emptying the dog bins, SERCO HELPLINE 01483 775422.